A Home Among the Gum Trees April 20 2016

Eucalyptus trees, also known as 'gum trees', are native to Australia and have played an important role in our cultural identity. We love these tall, strong trees - home to the much loved Koala. We have pulled together many beautiful Australian gifts and souvenirs that have been inspired by the Eucalypt, including this cushion and tea towel.

From children's songs like 'Kookaburra sits in the old gum tree' to iconic paintings like the famous 'Ghost gum' by indigenous artist Albert Namatjira - gum trees have featured prominently in many areas of Australia's history and life.

The word 'Eucalyptus' comes from a combination of Greek words meaning 'well covered', referring to the cap that protects the flower buds before they open. Governor Arthur Philip is said to have been the first to call the eucalypt a ‘gum tree’ back in 1788.

There are more than 600 species of native eucalyptus trees - a smooth-barked tree that exudes a ‘gum’ known as ‘kino’ and contains eucalyptus oil in the leaves.The Blue Mountains, a popular tourist destination west of Sydney, got it's name because of the blue haze seen from distance as the eucalyptus oil rises from these trees.